As people all over Israel are on edge due to the increasing waves of terror and violence, one city shines as a beacon of hope amid the violence. A bit further down Highway 60 in Judea, the city of Hebron, biblical home of the Patriarchs and King David’s first capital city, are gearing up for a weekend of returning to one’s roots.

The annual ‘Hebron weekend’ taking place November 14-15, corresponds to the biblical reading of when Abraham purchased the land around the site of the Cave of the Patriarchs. Over 30,000 people are expected to flock to the city in a yearly pilgrimage the likes of which are rarely seen in Israel.

“People are expected from all over the world”, explained a spokesperson for the Hebron Fund. “In order to facilitate them all, we have set up special housing and tours for local as well as foreign visitors.”

The Hebron Fund has planned an itinerary of events for those who wish to participate in the celebratory weekend, including walking tours of the Jewish neighborhoods in the city, in-depth lectures as well as ‘meet & greets’ with some of the higher ranking IDF staff in the area, catered meals, a visit to the near by Iron Dome battery, a visit to a restricted IDF base, and lectures by local experts on the history of the city.

While many plan to participate in the various planned excursions and events, the city is expecting thousands of visitors, many of whom will simply do their own thing and show up for the simple joy of visiting the Cave of The Patriarchs on this special weekend.

The annual weekend has in the past provided attendees with a peaceful and enjoyable weekend, full of education, reflection and prayer and has raised awareness for the Jewish community of the city, that dwells in one of the most historical cities in Israel and in the world.